The Golden Rule

The Golden Rule, written by Ilene Cooper, kickstarts the kindness challenge, and promotes a classroom atmosphere of empathy, compassion, and cooperation. Surrounded by Gabi Swiatowska's dreamlike illustrations, a young boy's grandfather explains the universal principle with examples from Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, and the Shawnee tribe. 

During the read aloud, we embark on thoughtful conversations sparked by questions like, "What would the world be like if individuals and nations followed the golden rule?" The lesson ends with a contract, when everyone signs their name and commits to being mindful of others.

Joy

 

During the last library lesson of 2015, Mrs. Hudson reads Kate DiCamillo's Great Joy, a moving story of one child's incredible compassion. Next, she guides the class through an introspective and collaborative exploration of the many ways we can all spread joy. The word cloud above illustrates the variety of thoughtful contributions.

What is one of the best parts of the holidays that you can't touch, taste, see, smell or hear? This is the last T.A.G. question of the year. Enjoy the following (unedited) responses, and happy holidays!

 

 

What's In A Name?

One of this year's first read alouds is My Name is Yoon, written by Helen Recorvits. According to Literacyhead.com, it "captures all the anxiety of a new school, new friends, and a new teacher, approaching them with 'Shining Wisdom.'"  The story fits well within culture, movement/migration, and location, three 3rd grade social studies themes.  

Inspired by the book, the first narratives of the year are all about names. They are currently on display outside the classroom, so stop by to discover the stories behind our names.

3rd Grade Science Rocks!

The first science unit of the year is hands-on and super fun. The rocks, minerals, soils and fossils unit begins with a read aloud of Byrd Baylor's beautifully illustrated book, Everybody Needs a Rock. Naturally, the next step is head outside and search for the perfect rock!

Back inside, everyone describes their rocks, and why they chose them. A handful of folks create adjective word clouds on Wordle.

Frenya’s Word Cloud

Saraya's Word Cloud

Ethan’s Word Cloud

Carolina's Word Cloud

Andrew’s Word Cloud

Essie smiles and describes the shape, texture, weight, and imagined color (grey) of a small rock while blindfolded. 

Without sight, Carolina and Messiah are more mindful of tactile physical properties.

Spencer explores "small, sharpish" crystals in the crevices of an oxidizing chunk of vanadinite.